Japan, the world's third largest economy, has experienced some difficult economic and social issues since 1991. Due to the low birthrate and aging society, her population has begun to decline in absolute numbers, and is forecast to drop to 86.7 million from its current population size of about 126.7 million by 2060. In other words, Japan will likely have 68% of its current population. What might this mean for the Japan's vitality in the coming decades? What plans are in place to deal with this demographic decline? What changes is this bringing to society, and how are they being received? I will use data from my own ethnographic studies on gender and work, aging and care, as well as recent policy documents and statistics to analyze how Japanese stakeholders are currently viewing and addressing this important challenge.

English presentation followed by bilingual discussion . A light lunch will be served.